Shorthand experienced its heyday in the years immediately following the Civil War. As the end of the 19th century approached, many reporters began to swear off its usefulness, saying that shorthand's time had passed, and that it was no longer worth the significant effort required to learn it. By the early 1890's, the century's practice…Read more The Rise and Fall of Shorthand in Victorian-Era America

Good evening readers - it's been a good week at Forgotten New England. The site has hit 150 followers and has been experiencing some of its heaviest traffic ever. And - an editor from a reputable publishing house happened upon this blog last week and asked if I'd be interested in writing a book…Read more A ‘Forgotten New England’ Book?

I’ve climbed my family tree. Amidst laborers, farmers, and even a pirate hidden within its branches, I’ve also found circus performers and musicians clinging to the acorns. Someday (yes, the proverbial and elusive someday), I think it would be interesting to write a story around the Victorian stage, and its actors and actresses - and…Read more Performers of the Victorian Stage – Professor Samri Baldwin, Installment I